F1 confirms last Malaysian GP in October

Haas F1 Team driver Kevin Magnussen of Denmark steers his car during the first practice session for the Chinese Formula One Grand Prix at the Shanghai International Circuit in Shanghai, China, Friday, April 7, 2017. (AP Photo/Andy Wong)(Photo: The Associated Press)

SHANGHAI (AP) — The Malaysian Grand Prix will hold its final edition on Oct. 1, bringing an end to one of the longest-running Formula One races in Asia after struggling in recent years to attract fans and local television viewers.

The announcement, which was made Friday by F1 officials at the Chinese Grand Prix and the Malaysian government, had been anticipated after the country’s sports minister indicated late last year that the race’s contract would not be renewed when it expires in 2018.

Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak said Friday the government had decided to pull out of F1 because of the high cost of staging the event and declining ticket sales and tourism figures.

“Hosting the F1 has helped promote the country as a destination for international sports and tourism. However, it’s time for the government to assess the F1 race…